Converting the Production of Commercial Refrigeration Equipment to Natural Refrigerants in Swaziland

As of: June 2020

Objective and activities

The project's objective was to make a switch to natural refrigerants in the equipment produced by local manufacturer Palfridge, replacing the halogenated refrigerants used in the past, and to eliminate any possible safety issues by providing intensive training, among other things. The project, which served as model for other companies and countries, supported the company in improving the energy efficiency of the equipment manufactured.

State of implementation/results

Project completed

Alternative climate-friendly technology based on hydrocarbons (HCs) has been successfully rolled out at Palfridge; appliances are widespread in the market (sales of the appliances in 2012 reached 92% of annual production)

A comprehensive safety policy has been put in place and published for use by appliance manufacturers worldwide

The new appliances are on average 27% more energy efficient

Local employees and service engineers have received training and are now competent in using the technology

Experience has been transferred to other market participants, for example through a workshop involving refrigerator manufacturers in Latin America